Jozefina is the Croatian form of the French name Joséphine. Ultimately derived from Joseph, the name carries the meaning "he will add" or "God shall add," rooted in the Hebrew verb yasaf (to add, to increase). Jozefina is pronounced roughly as yo-zeh-FEE-nah in its native Croatian context.EtymologyThe name traces back through Joséphine made famous by Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais, first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. The French form feminized the biblical Joseph, whose Hebrew name יוֹסֵף (Yosef) embodied hope for divine increase. In the Old Testament, Joseph is a key patriarchal figure sold into slavery who rises to power in Egypt (Genesis 37–50). The spread of Christianity and the veneration of Saint Joseph—the husband of Mary and fostering father of Jesus in the New Testament—encouraged the name's adoption in many linguistic forms.Cultural Significance in CroatiaJozefina belongs to a network of European cognates—such as Josefína in Czech, Josefine in Swedish, and Josephine in German—each adapting the French model to local phonology. Although Jozefina is less widespread than its root Joseph, the Croatian form retains dignity through historical use among educated families. It coexists with the familiar diminutive Finka, which adds a distinctly domestic touch.Per the Croatian portative "Portal of Contemporary Personal Names," Jozefina is officially recognized and follows standard feminine declension. Despite its modest popularity, it never faded, sustained by biblical tradition and intermittent noble or literary references.SummaryMeaning: "He will add"Origin: Croatian form of French JoséphineType: Female given nameUsage regions: Croatia, with recognition in Serbia and Bosnia